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Jitterbug posts

Jitterbug comes to Verizon's network, 'Can you hear me now' guy replaced by Wilford Brimley

by Joseph L. Flatley posted Aug 27th 2009 @ 10:56AM

We don't see much of Jitterbug in these parts, though we do love the premise: a simple handset with a nostalgic name designed expressly to not excite Grandma so much. Sure, we were disappointed when the company ditched the three-button controls for a traditional keypad, but apparently even seniors would like to call someone besides "Home," "Operator," or "911" from time to time. And now, Verizon has announced that it will be taking over as Jitterbug's wireless carrier, a move which should result in better coverage and cheaper plans -- doesn't the "greatest generation" deserve at least that much? Full PR after the break.

Continue reading Jitterbug comes to Verizon's network, 'Can you hear me now' guy replaced by Wilford Brimley

Jitterbug updates sole model with Jitterbug J, not just for old folks anymore

by Chris Ziegler posted Jun 2nd 2009 @ 11:00AM

Previously billed mainly as a senior-friendly phone backed by a senior-friendly service, Jitterbug has replaced its original device with the very similar Jitterbug J -- a phone that improves on its predecessor in a couple key ways -- and has expanded its target audience to include anyone that wants a no-frills phone that pulls no punches. For $147 contract-free, you'll get new features like Bluetooth support and text messaging (we said no-frills, okay?) plus an improved UI, while unique character quirks of the original -- namely the teardrop shape and rubber cup around the earpiece -- carry over. We'll admit, the fact that it actually emits a frigging dial tone when opened is the coolest feature in years, but the lack of a WebKit-based browser is a deal-breaker for us, guys; calls us when you've muddied your business model by throwing in complicated, hard-to-use features that will appeal to the gadget freak in us, though, okay?

[Via CNET]

Jitterbug issues recall to fix emergency calling in "no service" areas

by Chris Ziegler posted May 27th 2009 @ 7:54AM

When we first saw this, our immediate reaction was, "trust us, Jitterbug, we appreciate your extra-mile attitude here, but it's not your fault that 911 doesn't work without a signal." Turns out that's not quite the issue, though -- in reality, Jitterbug is recalling phones sold after March 1 of last year because they maybe be unable to place calls to 911 in areas where the company doesn't have MVNO or roaming agreements in place. In other words, the phone is showing "no service," but you've still got a signal -- and whenever a phone's got a signal, it should be able to dial the cops. Jitterbug is offering affected customers the option either of taking their handset into a local Samsung service center or mailing it in, at which point a software update will be applied. Too bad these things don't do firmware updates over the air, isn't it?

[Via Phone Scoop]

Hands on with the Jitterbug

by Paul Miller posted Sep 21st 2006 @ 3:01PM

We just spotted the Jitterbug, and while there's really not too much to see, the phone does seem to serve its purpose well. The "menu" system walks you through some yes or no questions from the moment you open the phone until you're done with your call, so things really couldn't be simpler on the interface front. As for build, the phone seems particularly solid, and everything has a well-built Samsung feel. Our only caveat is that the extra heft around the screen makes the phone a bit awkward to use with one hand, but if grandma or grandpa is dexterous enough to attempt such a feat, more power to them. Keep reading for a few more pics.

Continue reading Hands on with the Jitterbug

Jitterbug fills the void for geriatric MVNO

by Paul Miller posted Apr 7th 2006 @ 3:37PM

With all those MVNOs cropping up for the youthful crowd, it's about time the seniors got one of their own. The new Jitterbug MVNO will feature a special Jitterbug phone from Samsung with oversized keys, a large display text, and loud audio. There will be a second version that sounds similar to the firefly offerings for children, featuring only three main buttons: one to a Jitterbug operator to help make a call, one for 911, and one to call a dedicated number like that of a relative or perhaps the Home Shopping Network. The new MVNO is powered by Sprint, but sounds to be one of the last for a while since the carrier claims it's not going to be adding many more new MVNOs, and is currently taking a break to get their current MVNOs figured and see how well they do. We'll be sad to see these heady days go of four new MVNOs a minute, but perhaps it's for the best.

Read: Jitterbug MVNO
Read: Sprint holds off on new MVNOs